Drosera Adelae

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing | Free Shipping

Drosera adelae, commonly known as the lance-leaf sundew, is a unique and elegant carnivorous plant valued for its long, narrow leaves and abundant sticky dew. Native to the shaded rainforests of Queensland, Australia, this species differs from many sundews by preferring lower light and higher humidity. Its easy care and fast clumping growth make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced carnivorous plant enthusiasts.

Drosera Adelae (Lance-leaf Sundew) Care Guide :

Light Requirements

Drosera adelae prefers bright, indirect light rather than full sun. In nature, it grows under forest canopies, receiving filtered light. Place the plant near an east-facing window with gentle morning light or under grow lights positioned slightly higher than for sun-loving sundews. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn or reddish stress coloration, while too little light may reduce dew production. Leaves should remain green with a light pink tint at the tentacles.

Watering

Pure water is essential. Always use rainwater, distilled water, or RO water. Minerals found in tap water will build up in the soil and damage the plant. Keep the growing medium consistently moist at all times. Drosera adelae responds well to the tray method, sitting in 1–2 cm of water, especially in warm conditions. Unlike some sundews, it tolerates slightly wetter conditions and should never be allowed to dry out.

Soil and Potting

Use a nutrient-poor, acidic medium such as sphagnum peat moss mixed with perlite or silica sand in a 1:1 ratio. Avoid regular potting soil or compost, as these contain nutrients that will kill the plant. Plastic or glazed ceramic pots are recommended to prevent mineral leaching. Drosera adelae produces long roots and spreads via underground runners, so slightly deeper pots are beneficial. Repot every 1–2 years to refresh the medium.

Temperature and Humidity

Drosera adelae thrives in warm, stable temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. It prefers higher humidity levels, ideally 60–80%, making it well-suited to terrariums, grow cabinets, or humid indoor spaces. While it can adapt to normal indoor humidity, consistent moisture in the air improves dew production and overall vigor. Ensure gentle air circulation to prevent fungal problems.

Feeding

This sundew captures its own prey using sticky tentacles that trap small insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies. Feeding is not required if insects are present. Indoors, occasional feeding with tiny insects or crushed dried insects can support faster growth. Never fertilize the soil, as this can burn the roots and kill the plant.

Dormancy

Unlike temperate sundews, Drosera adelae does not require winter dormancy. Growth may slow slightly in cooler or lower-light conditions, but the plant remains active year-round. Continue providing consistent moisture and moderate light throughout all seasons.

Growth Habit and Propagation

Drosera adelae grows in dense clumps and spreads readily through underground runners, often producing baby plants around the parent. Propagation is easy using root cuttings, leaf cuttings, or division. Leaf cuttings placed on moist peat often produce plantlets within weeks, making this species very rewarding to propagate.

Common Problems

Lack of dew usually indicates insufficient humidity, poor water quality, or stress from excess light. Blackened leaves may occur naturally as older leaves die, but widespread damage suggests mineral buildup or drying out. Pests are uncommon, though aphids may occasionally appear on flower stalks.

Toxicity

Drosera adelae is non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.

Conclusion

With filtered light, pure water, consistently moist soil, and higher humidity, Drosera adelae thrives and spreads readily. Its elegant foliage, heavy dew production, and easy propagation make it one of the most rewarding tropical sundews to grow indoors.